Friday, August 24, 2012

Educational Class on the Taser for the Public - Community Advisory

The TASER, which is a type of electronically controlled weapon (ECW), has had a significant influence in American law enforcement agencies. Perhaps no other weapon has had such a dramatic impact. When used appropriately with a full understanding of their risks, ECWs are useful weapons that can effectively help officers to resolve serious situations. ECWs can reduce the need for more dangerous weapons and lower officer and subject injury rates (2011 Electronic Control Weapon Guidelines).
As part of the Takoma Park Police Department’s effort to increase awareness of the TASER, which our officers are authorized to carry and often use in field, we will be holding an educational presentation to the public on how the TASER works, its advantages to law enforcement, and a brief overview of our department’s policies on use of the TASER. In providing this educational presentation, we hope to provide community members a clear understanding of the weapon as well as to clarify any misconceptions in reference to TASER use. Those who attend may also voluntarily request to have the TASER deployed on them.
The educational presentation will be held on Friday, September 7 from 6-7:30 pm in the auditorium of the Takoma Park Community Center at 7500 Maple Avenue. There is no cost, but the class is limited to the first 25 people. Please contact Officer Carla Magnaye at carlam@takomagov.org or 301-891-7121 with any inquiries or to register for the class.